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'''Les Johnson''' describes himself as a NASA physicist, author, husband, father, and manager—though probably not in that order. At NASA, he's the Deputy Manager for the Advanced Concepts Office of the George C. Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville AL. He uses what he calls his spare time to write (popular science books/articles as well as science fiction), read (science fiction), and fulfill both the roles of husband and that of father to his two children.

'''Les Johnson''' describes himself as a NASA physicist, author, husband, father, and manager—though probably not in that order. At NASA, he's the Deputy Manager for the Advanced Concepts Office of the George C. Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville AL. He uses what he calls his spare time to write (popular science books/articles as well as science fiction), read (science fiction), and fulfill both the roles of husband and that of father to his two children.

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Les's latest production—''Sky Alert!: When Satellites Fail'', due out 31 March 2013 from Springer Books—is another foray into popsci that examines in detail the topics of the modern world's dependence on satellite technologies, what could and would go wrong in a catastrophic loss of satellites, and how we can work to prevent or prepare for that. Before that there was ''Going Interstellar'', co-edited with Jack McDevitt, which collected both fiction and essays on the titular subject. Then there's his science fiction novel ''Back to the Moon''—written with Travis S. Taylor—the story of (not surprisingly) mankind's return to that body after decades of absence. He's also the co-author (with various others) of the non-fiction ''Paradise Regained: The Regreening of Earth'', ''Solar Sails: A Novel Approach to Interplanetary Travel'', and ''Living Off the Land in Space: Green Roads to the Cosmos''.

Les's latest production—''Sky Alert!: When Satellites Fail'', due out 31 March 2013 from Springer Books—is another foray into popsci that examines in detail the topics of the modern world's dependence on satellite technologies, what could and would go wrong in a catastrophic loss of satellites, and how we can work to prevent or prepare for that. Before that there was ''Going Interstellar'', co-edited with Jack McDevitt, which collected both fiction and essays on the titular subject. Then there's his science fiction novel ''Back to the Moon''—written with Travis S. Taylor—the story of (not surprisingly) mankind's return to that body after decades of absence. He's also the co-author (with various others) of the non-fiction ''Paradise Regained: The Regreening of Earth'', ''Solar Sails: A Novel Approach to Interplanetary Travel'', and ''Living Off the Land in Space: Green Roads to the Cosmos''.

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You can learn lots more about Les at [http://lesjohnsonauthor.com/ lesjohnsonauthor.com] or you can check his [http://www.facebook.com/pages/Les-Johnson/91916935147 Facebook page], his [http://les-johnson.blogspot.com/ personal blog], and his [http://www.linkedin.com/in/lesjohnson1 Linkedin page].

You can learn lots more about Les at [http://lesjohnsonauthor.com/ lesjohnsonauthor.com] or you can check his [http://www.facebook.com/pages/Les-Johnson/91916935147 Facebook page], his [http://les-johnson.blogspot.com/ personal blog], and his [http://www.linkedin.com/in/lesjohnson1 Linkedin page].

For us at Con†Stellation, '''Toni Weisskopf''' may be the epitome of a hometown <del>gal</del> <del>woman</del> <del>person</del> hero made good. OK, so Huntsville isn't actually her home town, but she moved here with her family at age 12 and credits our fair city as the place she discovered fandom.

For us at Con†Stellation, '''Toni Weisskopf''' may be the epitome of a hometown <del>gal</del> <del>woman</del> <del>person</del> hero made good. OK, so Huntsville isn't actually her home town, but she moved here with her family at age 12 and credits our fair city as the place she discovered fandom.

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After graduating from Oberlin College she joined Baen Books (in 1987) where she rose through the ranks from editorial assistant to editor to executive editor. She took the reins as publisher after the death of founder Jim Baen in 2006.

After graduating from Oberlin College she joined Baen Books (in 1987) where she rose through the ranks from editorial assistant to editor to executive editor. She took the reins as publisher after the death of founder Jim Baen in 2006.

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Toni has kept Baen Books one of the leading publishers of sf and fantasy since then and shows no signs of slowing down. When you talk to her at Con†Stellation you can ask her about Baen's e-publishing program and how their philosophy on Digital Rights Management seems to be spreading; or about the stellar list of authors she's worked with; or about, well, just about anything to do with sf/f publishing. You can also ask her about fandom—she may be the consumate pro but she's also still a fan, and was one of the driving forces bringing DeepSouthCon back to Huntsville for its [http://www.dsc50huntsville.com/ 50<sup><small>th</small></sup> incarnation] last year. You can read more about Toni Weisskopf in a [http://www.locusmag.com/2007/Issue03_Weisskopf.html <em>Locus Magazine</em> interview] or visit the Baen Books website [http://www.baen.com/ here].

Toni has kept Baen Books one of the leading publishers of sf and fantasy since then and shows no signs of slowing down. When you talk to her at Con†Stellation you can ask her about Baen's e-publishing program and how their philosophy on Digital Rights Management seems to be spreading; or about the stellar list of authors she's worked with; or about, well, just about anything to do with sf/f publishing. You can also ask her about fandom—she may be the consumate pro but she's also still a fan, and was one of the driving forces bringing DeepSouthCon back to Huntsville for its [http://www.dsc50huntsville.com/ 50<sup><small>th</small></sup> incarnation] last year. You can read more about Toni Weisskopf in a [http://www.locusmag.com/2007/Issue03_Weisskopf.html <em>Locus Magazine</em> interview] or visit the Baen Books website [http://www.baen.com/ here].

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===Melissa Gay===

===Melissa Gay===

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'''Melissa Gay''' describes her artistic interests as covering "Science Fiction, Fantasy, Gaming, Horror, and Speculative Fiction of All Stripes." Even a brief perusal of her work finds all of that and more, including some remarkably detailed botanical illustrations and darling children's art. Melissa has a BA in Studio Art from the University of the South (aka Sewanee) but claims that as a "very slow learner…all my illustration skills were absorbed on the job as I have gone along." Perhaps so, but however her skills developed we're happy for it.

'''Melissa Gay''' describes her artistic interests as covering "Science Fiction, Fantasy, Gaming, Horror, and Speculative Fiction of All Stripes." Even a brief perusal of her work finds all of that and more, including some remarkably detailed botanical illustrations and darling children's art. Melissa has a BA in Studio Art from the University of the South (aka Sewanee) but claims that as a "very slow learner…all my illustration skills were absorbed on the job as I have gone along." Perhaps so, but however her skills developed we're happy for it.

Her work has been featured by many companies (including Apex Press, DOJ/Hero Games, Evil Hat, Frontiers Nashville, Llewellyn Worldwide, Minigame Magazine, Mythopoeic Press, Phage Press, Rising Image Productions, and Third Eye Games) and snapped up by many private collectors.

Her work has been featured by many companies (including Apex Press, DOJ/Hero Games, Evil Hat, Frontiers Nashville, Llewellyn Worldwide, Minigame Magazine, Mythopoeic Press, Phage Press, Rising Image Productions, and Third Eye Games) and snapped up by many private collectors.

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You may be as likely to find Melissa in Gaming at Con†Stellation as in the Art Show. She says she's shy but loves to talk to people and welcomes your approach—whether it's to talk about art or reading or life in general, or to join her at the gaming table. You can find out more about Melissa at her website—[http://www.melissagay.com MelissaGay.com]—which includes a [http://www.melissagay.com/melissaartjournal/ blog] and plenty of examples of her work. You can see more of her work in various places around the web including [http://dianaprobst.com/2011/08/09/spotlight-on-melissa-gay-american-illustration-artist/ blogs from other artists] and [http://www.epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=11822&genre= Epilogue] or hear an interview on [http://podcast.rolling20spodcast.com/2012/12/19/s1e2-melissa-gay-and-giggles/ this podcast].

You may be as likely to find Melissa in Gaming at Con†Stellation as in the Art Show. She says she's shy but loves to talk to people and welcomes your approach—whether it's to talk about art or reading or life in general, or to join her at the gaming table. You can find out more about Melissa at her website—[http://www.melissagay.com MelissaGay.com]—which includes a [http://www.melissagay.com/melissaartjournal/ blog] and plenty of examples of her work. You can see more of her work in various places around the web including [http://dianaprobst.com/2011/08/09/spotlight-on-melissa-gay-american-illustration-artist/ blogs from other artists] and [http://www.epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=11822&genre= Epilogue] or hear an interview on [http://podcast.rolling20spodcast.com/2012/12/19/s1e2-melissa-gay-and-giggles/ this podcast].

'''L.R. Barrett-Durham''' considers herself a Jane Of All Trades. Her first novel, ''Never Trust a Sorcerer'', is an epic fantasy self-published in September 2011. While working on the second book in her "Trust Series," ''Always Trust Your Honor'', she met E.G. Glover who quickly became her co-author on a paranormal romance series. Together they finished the first volume, ''Fear the Beast Within'', in just thirty-seven days; it came out just one day apart from ''Always Trust Your Honor''. The second book of the "Fear Series," ''Fear the Thirst Within'', was published in May 2012 while the third, ''Fear the Emptiness Within'', is currently in work. The third book in the "Trust Series," ''Forever Trust Your Aim'', is already out. Then there's ''Finding the Beauty Within'', described as a full color Children's Classic inspired by ''Fear the Emptiness Within''. The standalone ''A Twist In Time'' also available.

'''L.R. Barrett-Durham''' considers herself a Jane Of All Trades. Her first novel, ''Never Trust a Sorcerer'', is an epic fantasy self-published in September 2011. While working on the second book in her "Trust Series," ''Always Trust Your Honor'', she met E.G. Glover who quickly became her co-author on a paranormal romance series. Together they finished the first volume, ''Fear the Beast Within'', in just thirty-seven days; it came out just one day apart from ''Always Trust Your Honor''. The second book of the "Fear Series," ''Fear the Thirst Within'', was published in May 2012 while the third, ''Fear the Emptiness Within'', is currently in work. The third book in the "Trust Series," ''Forever Trust Your Aim'', is already out. Then there's ''Finding the Beauty Within'', described as a full color Children's Classic inspired by ''Fear the Emptiness Within''. The standalone ''A Twist In Time'' also available.

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L.R. is a native of North Alabama and not only an author, but a freelance artist in several media. She illustrated the cover of each of her books; designs jewelry taken right from the pages of those books; and—along with E.G Glover—makes stained glass art inspired by fantasy and science fiction.

L.R. is a native of North Alabama and not only an author, but a freelance artist in several media. She illustrated the cover of each of her books; designs jewelry taken right from the pages of those books; and—along with E.G Glover—makes stained glass art inspired by fantasy and science fiction.

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You can find out more about Ms Barrett-Durham at the [http://fearandtrust.freewebspace.com joint website she has with Mr. Glover] or Like them on [http://www.facebook.com/fearandtrust their Facebook page]. Their stained glass work is also for sale [http://fearandtrust.freewebspace.com/glass.htm on their website].

You can find out more about Ms Barrett-Durham at the [http://fearandtrust.freewebspace.com joint website she has with Mr. Glover] or Like them on [http://www.facebook.com/fearandtrust their Facebook page]. Their stained glass work is also for sale [http://fearandtrust.freewebspace.com/glass.htm on their website].

'''E.G. Glover''''s first novel, ''Fear the Beast Within'', was published in January 2012 so he still considers himself rather new to "the novel-writing scene." E.G. says he flirted with shorter fiction in high school&mdash;writing poems and short stories&mdash;but it wasn't until a couple of years ago that his dream of writing a novel became a reality. Four short months later, he and co-author L.R. Barrett-Durham had two novels in print, when book two, ''Fear the Thirst Within'', appeared.

'''E.G. Glover''''s first novel, ''Fear the Beast Within'', was published in January 2012 so he still considers himself rather new to "the novel-writing scene." E.G. says he flirted with shorter fiction in high school&mdash;writing poems and short stories&mdash;but it wasn't until a couple of years ago that his dream of writing a novel became a reality. Four short months later, he and co-author L.R. Barrett-Durham had two novels in print, when book two, ''Fear the Thirst Within'', appeared.

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An Alabama native, E.G. has said that one of his hopes with the "Fear Series" is to prove that a romantic story can be told with a male's point of view entwined, and still hold its romanticism.

An Alabama native, E.G. has said that one of his hopes with the "Fear Series" is to prove that a romantic story can be told with a male's point of view entwined, and still hold its romanticism.

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You can find out more about Mr. Glover at the [http://fearandtrust.freewebspace.com joint website he has with Ms Barrett-Durham] or Like them on [http://www.facebook.com/fearandtrust their Facebook page] or see their stained glass work [http://fearandtrust.freewebspace.com/glass.htm on their website].

You can find out more about Mr. Glover at the [http://fearandtrust.freewebspace.com joint website he has with Ms Barrett-Durham] or Like them on [http://www.facebook.com/fearandtrust their Facebook page] or see their stained glass work [http://fearandtrust.freewebspace.com/glass.htm on their website].

'''Stephanie Osborn''' is a former payload flight controller, a veteran of over twenty years of working in the civilian space program as well as various military space defense programs. Stephanie is retired from space work and has moved on to be a heck of a writer. She's been known to claim she's still fairly new at this "author stuff," but that's getting harder to take seriously all the time… just look at the body of her work. Her website—[http://www.Stephanie-Osborn.com www.Stephanie-Osborn.com]—lists a huge array of novels (some co-authored with the likes of Travis S. Taylor, Darrell Bain, or Darrell Osborn), short fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and even a YA fantasy book. Stephanie was a major hit as our Mistress of Ceremonies at Con†Stellation XXX in 2011—so much so that she's become our semi-permanent MC :-)

'''Stephanie Osborn''' is a former payload flight controller, a veteran of over twenty years of working in the civilian space program as well as various military space defense programs. Stephanie is retired from space work and has moved on to be a heck of a writer. She's been known to claim she's still fairly new at this "author stuff," but that's getting harder to take seriously all the time… just look at the body of her work. Her website—[http://www.Stephanie-Osborn.com www.Stephanie-Osborn.com]—lists a huge array of novels (some co-authored with the likes of Travis S. Taylor, Darrell Bain, or Darrell Osborn), short fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and even a YA fantasy book. Stephanie was a major hit as our Mistress of Ceremonies at Con†Stellation XXX in 2011—so much so that she's become our semi-permanent MC :-)

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In addition to her [http://www.Stephanie-Osborn.com website], you can follow her on [http://twitter.com/WriterSteph Twitter], [http://www.facebook.com/novelist.stephanie.osborn Facebook], [http://www.myspace.com/novelist_stephanie_osborn Myspace], or any of several other social sites listed on her [http://www.sff.net/people/steph-osborn/Links.html links page].

In addition to her [http://www.Stephanie-Osborn.com website], you can follow her on [http://twitter.com/WriterSteph Twitter], [http://www.facebook.com/novelist.stephanie.osborn Facebook], [http://www.myspace.com/novelist_stephanie_osborn Myspace], or any of several other social sites listed on her [http://www.sff.net/people/steph-osborn/Links.html links page].

[[File:DarrellOsborn.jpg|175px|thumb|right|<div align="center">Dr. Osborn in one of his "moods"</div>]]

[[File:DarrellOsborn.jpg|175px|thumb|right|<div align="center">Dr. Osborn in one of his "moods"</div>]]

'''Darrell Osborn''' is a Renaissance man&mdash;graphic artist, stage magician, and balloon artist. When not plotting complete world domination, he puts on a variety of magic shows in the Tennesse Valley area under his nom de stage "Doctor Osborn." These last several years he's also been sharing his balloon sculptures (''lots'' more than just your basic balloon animals!), magic, and general madcap sensibility at conventions around the area—including Con†Stellation.

'''Darrell Osborn''' is a Renaissance man&mdash;graphic artist, stage magician, and balloon artist. When not plotting complete world domination, he puts on a variety of magic shows in the Tennesse Valley area under his nom de stage "Doctor Osborn." These last several years he's also been sharing his balloon sculptures (''lots'' more than just your basic balloon animals!), magic, and general madcap sensibility at conventions around the area—including Con†Stellation.

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You can find out more about Darrell on [http://www.afterdinnermagic.com/ his website] or on his [http://www.facebook.com/DoctorOsborn Facebook page].

You can find out more about Darrell on [http://www.afterdinnermagic.com/ his website] or on his [http://www.facebook.com/DoctorOsborn Facebook page].

Though '''Kurt Miller''' has been an in-house artist before, he found he can more than hold his own as a freelance illustrator. His wheelhouse not only encompasses science fiction, fantasy, and horror book covers, but is wide enough to take in computer/console gaming, board games, military art, and other things that defy easy classification. He could show you his BFA (specializing in Visual Communication) from the Maryland Institute College of Art, but the art itself speaks louder than the degree. When not submersed in artistic endeavors, Kurt says his favorite thing is playing with his dogs.

Though '''Kurt Miller''' has been an in-house artist before, he found he can more than hold his own as a freelance illustrator. His wheelhouse not only encompasses science fiction, fantasy, and horror book covers, but is wide enough to take in computer/console gaming, board games, military art, and other things that defy easy classification. He could show you his BFA (specializing in Visual Communication) from the Maryland Institute College of Art, but the art itself speaks louder than the degree. When not submersed in artistic endeavors, Kurt says his favorite thing is playing with his dogs.

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You can learn more about Kurt—and see a lot of his work—at [http://www.kmistudio.com his website]. You can also listen to the man in a 40-odd minute audio interview from when he was the Artist GoH [http://balticonpodcast.org/wordpress/2010/03/bc43-87-kurt-miller-art-goh/ at Balticon 37].

You can learn more about Kurt—and see a lot of his work—at [http://www.kmistudio.com his website]. You can also listen to the man in a 40-odd minute audio interview from when he was the Artist GoH [http://balticonpodcast.org/wordpress/2010/03/bc43-87-kurt-miller-art-goh/ at Balticon 37].

'''Larry Correia''' spent his formative years in El Nido CA where he tells us the cows far outnumbered the people. There being little of interest in El Nido, he shot a lot of guns and read a lot of books—both of which activities contributed strongly the the “formative” part of “formative years.” The latter interest led him to empty the local library by age 12. First came Louis L’Amour, then Terry Brooks, Raymond E. Feist, David Eddings, John Dalmas, Frank Herbert, and more. In between the reading came the shooting—for pest control, for food, and for enjoyment; not all at the same time.

'''Larry Correia''' spent his formative years in El Nido CA where he tells us the cows far outnumbered the people. There being little of interest in El Nido, he shot a lot of guns and read a lot of books—both of which activities contributed strongly the the “formative” part of “formative years.” The latter interest led him to empty the local library by age 12. First came Louis L’Amour, then Terry Brooks, Raymond E. Feist, David Eddings, John Dalmas, Frank Herbert, and more. In between the reading came the shooting—for pest control, for food, and for enjoyment; not all at the same time.

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He followed his family to Utah and ended up going to Utah State University (instead of Cal Poly as he’d originally planned) where he converted to Mormonism. He also ended up in Alabama on his LDS mission. He says he was good at it, “Well, as good as somebody that looked like a young, hulking, terrifying James Gandolfini could be expected to do in a field where you randomly go up and talk to complete strangers.”

He followed his family to Utah and ended up going to Utah State University (instead of Cal Poly as he’d originally planned) where he converted to Mormonism. He also ended up in Alabama on his LDS mission. He says he was good at it, “Well, as good as somebody that looked like a young, hulking, terrifying James Gandolfini could be expected to do in a field where you randomly go up and talk to complete strangers.”

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While on that mission he traveled to a lot of small towns in Alabama, Tennessee, and Mississippi and fell in love with the south. So, when he started the [http://larrycorreia.wordpress.com/mhi-sample/ Monster Hunter International series] he set it in the south and “made MHI a Southerncentric organization.” The humidity, however, drove him back to Utah. Besides the five-volume (and growing) MHI series, you can also check out his three-volume Grimnoir Chronicles (the 3rd book due out Summer 2013) and the two Dead Six books (with a third planned).

While on that mission he traveled to a lot of small towns in Alabama, Tennessee, and Mississippi and fell in love with the south. So, when he started the [http://larrycorreia.wordpress.com/mhi-sample/ Monster Hunter International series] he set it in the south and “made MHI a Southerncentric organization.” The humidity, however, drove him back to Utah. Besides the five-volume (and growing) MHI series, you can also check out his three-volume Grimnoir Chronicles (the 3rd book due out Summer 2013) and the two Dead Six books (with a third planned).

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You can learn lots more about Larry by checking out [http://larrycorreia.wordpress.com/ his blog] or [https://www.facebook.com/larry.correia his Facebook page]. Bibliographies are available on the [http://www.baen.com/author_catalog.asp?author=lcorreia Baen Book website], on [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larry_Correia#Works Wikipedia], and on the [http://authors.simonandschuster.com/Larry-Correia/62734448/books Simon & Schuster website].

You can learn lots more about Larry by checking out [http://larrycorreia.wordpress.com/ his blog] or [https://www.facebook.com/larry.correia his Facebook page]. Bibliographies are available on the [http://www.baen.com/author_catalog.asp?author=lcorreia Baen Book website], on [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larry_Correia#Works Wikipedia], and on the [http://authors.simonandschuster.com/Larry-Correia/62734448/books Simon & Schuster website].

'''David B. Coe''' is a winner of the William L. Crawford Memorial Fantasy Award, given by the International Association for the Fantastic in the Arts for the best book or series by a new fantasy author. His works include the ''LonTobyn Chronicle'' trilogy, five books in his ''Winds of the Forelands'' series, the ''Blood of the Southlands'' series (currently at 3 volumes), and various short fiction. His most recent releases are ''The Dark-Eyes' War'' (book 3 of Blood of the Southlands) and ''Robin Hood'' (a novelization of the [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0955308/ movie directed by Ridley Scott] and starring Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett).

'''David B. Coe''' is a winner of the William L. Crawford Memorial Fantasy Award, given by the International Association for the Fantastic in the Arts for the best book or series by a new fantasy author. His works include the ''LonTobyn Chronicle'' trilogy, five books in his ''Winds of the Forelands'' series, the ''Blood of the Southlands'' series (currently at 3 volumes), and various short fiction. His most recent releases are ''The Dark-Eyes' War'' (book 3 of Blood of the Southlands) and ''Robin Hood'' (a novelization of the [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0955308/ movie directed by Ridley Scott] and starring Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett).

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You can learn more about David at his website—[http://www.DavidBCoe.com www.DavidBCoe.com]—as well as several other venues including [http://www.facebook.com/david.b.coe his Facebook page], a [http://davidbcoe.wordpress.com/ WordPress blog], and a [http://davidbcoe.livejournal.com/ LiveJournal blog]. As a bonus, if you visit his website you'll find sample chapters from many of his novels.

You can learn more about David at his website—[http://www.DavidBCoe.com www.DavidBCoe.com]—as well as several other venues including [http://www.facebook.com/david.b.coe his Facebook page], a [http://davidbcoe.wordpress.com/ WordPress blog], and a [http://davidbcoe.livejournal.com/ LiveJournal blog]. As a bonus, if you visit his website you'll find sample chapters from many of his novels.

'''Melissa Gay''' describes her artistic interests as covering "Science Fiction, Fantasy, Gaming, Horror, and Speculative Fiction of All Stripes." Even a brief perusal of her work finds all of that and more, including some remarkably detailed botanical illustrations and darling children's art. Melissa has a BA in Studio Art from the University of the South (aka Sewanee) but claims that as a "very slow learner…all my illustration skills were absorbed on the job as I have gone along." Perhaps so, but however her skills developed we're happy for it.

'''Melissa Gay''' describes her artistic interests as covering "Science Fiction, Fantasy, Gaming, Horror, and Speculative Fiction of All Stripes." Even a brief perusal of her work finds all of that and more, including some remarkably detailed botanical illustrations and darling children's art. Melissa has a BA in Studio Art from the University of the South (aka Sewanee) but claims that as a "very slow learner…all my illustration skills were absorbed on the job as I have gone along." Perhaps so, but however her skills developed we're happy for it.

Her work has been featured by many companies (including Apex Press, DOJ/Hero Games, Evil Hat, Frontiers Nashville, Llewellyn Worldwide, Minigame Magazine, Mythopoeic Press, Phage Press, Rising Image Productions, and Third Eye Games) and snapped up by many private collectors.

Her work has been featured by many companies (including Apex Press, DOJ/Hero Games, Evil Hat, Frontiers Nashville, Llewellyn Worldwide, Minigame Magazine, Mythopoeic Press, Phage Press, Rising Image Productions, and Third Eye Games) and snapped up by many private collectors.

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You may be as likely to find Melissa in Gaming at Con†Stellation as in the Art Show. She says she's shy but loves to talk to people and welcomes your approach—whether it's to talk about art or reading or life in general, or to join her at the gaming table. You can find out more about Melissa at her website—[http://www.melissagay.com MelissaGay.com]—which includes a [http://www.melissagay.com/melissaartjournal/ blog] and plenty of examples of her work. You can see more of her work in various places around the web including [http://www.dresdenfilesrpg.com/2005/09/20/september-artist-spotlight-melissa-gay/ The Dresden Files RPG website] and [http://www.epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=11822&genre= Epilogue].

You may be as likely to find Melissa in Gaming at Con†Stellation as in the Art Show. She says she's shy but loves to talk to people and welcomes your approach—whether it's to talk about art or reading or life in general, or to join her at the gaming table. You can find out more about Melissa at her website—[http://www.melissagay.com MelissaGay.com]—which includes a [http://www.melissagay.com/melissaartjournal/ blog] and plenty of examples of her work. You can see more of her work in various places around the web including [http://www.dresdenfilesrpg.com/2005/09/20/september-artist-spotlight-melissa-gay/ The Dresden Files RPG website] and [http://www.epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=11822&genre= Epilogue].

'''The Moon Princesses'''—Julie Wall, Toni Weisskopf, & Linda Zielke—have been friends for mumbledy-mumble years and are renowned in fandom{{Whatis|Fandom}} for the parties they throw at conventions plus a general level of welcome frivolity. Of course, each of them is also accomplished in fandom in her own right. Individually and collectively they've worked on more conventions, published more fanzines, and generally engaged in more fanac{{Whatis|Fanac}} than you can shake a stick at. One of the three is also known for major achievements on the pro side of the fence (Hint: she goes by T.K.F. Weisskopf over there), having risen to be publisher of Baen Books several years ago.

'''The Moon Princesses'''—Julie Wall, Toni Weisskopf, & Linda Zielke—have been friends for mumbledy-mumble years and are renowned in fandom{{Whatis|Fandom}} for the parties they throw at conventions plus a general level of welcome frivolity. Of course, each of them is also accomplished in fandom in her own right. Individually and collectively they've worked on more conventions, published more fanzines, and generally engaged in more fanac{{Whatis|Fanac}} than you can shake a stick at. One of the three is also known for major achievements on the pro side of the fence (Hint: she goes by T.K.F. Weisskopf over there), having risen to be publisher of Baen Books several years ago.

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But we've invited the trio as this year's Fan Guests of Honor in large part because they had the nutty idea to throw together a bid to bring the 50<sup>th</sup> DeepSouthCon{{Whatis|DeepSouthCon}} to Huntsville and to provide the bulk of the committee from across the southeast rather than asking Huntsvillians to fill all the key roles. That means we have a con to go to right here in town that we don't need to run. Cool. Sounds worth honoring to us!

But we've invited the trio as this year's Fan Guests of Honor in large part because they had the nutty idea to throw together a bid to bring the 50<sup>th</sup> DeepSouthCon{{Whatis|DeepSouthCon}} to Huntsville and to provide the bulk of the committee from across the southeast rather than asking Huntsvillians to fill all the key roles. That means we have a con to go to right here in town that we don't need to run. Cool. Sounds worth honoring to us!

'''D.B. Jackson''' (the new pen name of an established, award-winning author) specializes in historical fantasy. D.B. is the author of ''Thieftaker Chronicles'', just out from Tor Books in July 2012. ''TC''—the first book in the new series ''Thieftaker''—is an urban fantasy set in pre-Revolutionary Boston. The second book in the series, ''Thieves' Quarry'', is currently scheduled for 2013. You can see sample chapters from both books on D.B.'s website—[http://www.dbjackson-author.com/Index.php www.dbjackson-author.com]—or you can sample his work in the short story "The Tavern Fire," which appears in the 2011 anthology ''After Hours: Tales from the Ur-Bar'', Joshua Palmatier and Patricia Bray, eds. ''After Hours'' is a DAW book and includes fifteen tales of fantasy, history, and intrigue.

'''D.B. Jackson''' (the new pen name of an established, award-winning author) specializes in historical fantasy. D.B. is the author of ''Thieftaker Chronicles'', just out from Tor Books in July 2012. ''TC''—the first book in the new series ''Thieftaker''—is an urban fantasy set in pre-Revolutionary Boston. The second book in the series, ''Thieves' Quarry'', is currently scheduled for 2013. You can see sample chapters from both books on D.B.'s website—[http://www.dbjackson-author.com/Index.php www.dbjackson-author.com]—or you can sample his work in the short story "The Tavern Fire," which appears in the 2011 anthology ''After Hours: Tales from the Ur-Bar'', Joshua Palmatier and Patricia Bray, eds. ''After Hours'' is a DAW book and includes fifteen tales of fantasy, history, and intrigue.

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In addition to his [http://www.dbjackson-author.com/Index.php website], you can check out DB's [http://www.facebook.com/pages/DB-Jackson/186983601326013 Facebook page], follow him on [http://twitter.com/dbjacksonauthor Twitter], or read his [http://www.dbjackson-author.com/blog blog]. Sharp-eyed observers may notice a strong resemblance between D.B. and another Con†Stellation guest.

In addition to his [http://www.dbjackson-author.com/Index.php website], you can check out DB's [http://www.facebook.com/pages/DB-Jackson/186983601326013 Facebook page], follow him on [http://twitter.com/dbjacksonauthor Twitter], or read his [http://www.dbjackson-author.com/blog blog]. Sharp-eyed observers may notice a strong resemblance between D.B. and another Con†Stellation guest.

{{-}}

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==Also Expected to Attend==

==Also Expected to Attend==

===<del>Joe Dickerson</del>===

===<del>Joe Dickerson</del>===

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For the longest time, '''Joe Dickerson''' believed that he had been hatched by aliens and released in the woods in southern Illinois only to be found and raised by some of the local, back-water folk. Sadly, that was not the case, but such thoughts did make his errant childhood much more interesting, and might explain some of the finer points of his personality. At an early age, he discovered speculative fiction and soon preferred to engross himself in the works of Lovecraft, Herbert, McCammon, and other such literary greats than to interact with the rest of the outside world. Early in 2004, Joe, frustrated with the low number of speculative fiction markets available, founded the online speculative fiction magazine ''Aberrant Dreams'', where Joe currently operates as managing editor and editor-in-chief. No one, not even Joe, can predict the direction ''Aberrant Dreams'' will take in the next few years, but he can guarantee the ride will be entertaining, to say the least. He invites you to make the journey with him. You can find out more at the [http://www.aberrantdreams.com ''Aberrant Dreams'' publishing website].

For the longest time, '''Joe Dickerson''' believed that he had been hatched by aliens and released in the woods in southern Illinois only to be found and raised by some of the local, back-water folk. Sadly, that was not the case, but such thoughts did make his errant childhood much more interesting, and might explain some of the finer points of his personality. At an early age, he discovered speculative fiction and soon preferred to engross himself in the works of Lovecraft, Herbert, McCammon, and other such literary greats than to interact with the rest of the outside world. Early in 2004, Joe, frustrated with the low number of speculative fiction markets available, founded the online speculative fiction magazine ''Aberrant Dreams'', where Joe currently operates as managing editor and editor-in-chief. No one, not even Joe, can predict the direction ''Aberrant Dreams'' will take in the next few years, but he can guarantee the ride will be entertaining, to say the least. He invites you to make the journey with him. You can find out more at the [http://www.aberrantdreams.com ''Aberrant Dreams'' publishing website].

<span style="color:#FF0000">Update:</span> Cancelled due to family matters.<br />

<span style="color:#FF0000">Update:</span> Cancelled due to family matters.<br />

Referred to as the “Gothic Rachael Ray,” '''Rachael Hill''' grew tired of collecting scar tissue and broken bones and decided to try her hand at cooking. With her devilishly twisted sense of humor, Rachael has crafted recipes of such temptation that one’s very soul may be in jeopardy from tasting. Her cookbook, ''Cuisine from Beyond'', was released in 2012 and showcases many of her original diabolical dishes. However, her creativity could not be quelled by her skills in the kitchen. She has also risen as a self taught photographer, specializing in many photographic genres, notably, live concert photography, which has afforded her the chance to contribute to the horror novel ''All the Darkness in the World'' by Andy Deane. Early in 2011, Rachael joined the Aberrant Dreams team where her contributions (and cooking skills) could be put to good use.

Referred to as the “Gothic Rachael Ray,” '''Rachael Hill''' grew tired of collecting scar tissue and broken bones and decided to try her hand at cooking. With her devilishly twisted sense of humor, Rachael has crafted recipes of such temptation that one’s very soul may be in jeopardy from tasting. Her cookbook, ''Cuisine from Beyond'', was released in 2012 and showcases many of her original diabolical dishes. However, her creativity could not be quelled by her skills in the kitchen. She has also risen as a self taught photographer, specializing in many photographic genres, notably, live concert photography, which has afforded her the chance to contribute to the horror novel ''All the Darkness in the World'' by Andy Deane. Early in 2011, Rachael joined the Aberrant Dreams team where her contributions (and cooking skills) could be put to good use.

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You can take a little peek inside Rachael's mind—if you dare—by taking a look at [http://rachaeldhill.com/ her blog].

You can take a little peek inside Rachael's mind—if you dare—by taking a look at [http://rachaeldhill.com/ her blog].

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<span style="color:#FF0000">Update:</span> Cancelled due to unexpected work trip.<br />

<span style="color:#FF0000">Update:</span> Cancelled due to unexpected work trip.<br />

'''J.F. Lewis''' is the author of the Void City series published by Pocket Books. His first book, ''Staked'', resulted in his excommunication, but he assures us he doesn't bite nor does his head spin around… though he wouldn't put it past his characters to do such things. Jeremy thinks it's pretty darn cool that his works have been translated into Italian and French. An avid reader, J also enjoys sushi, popcorn, lukewarm sodas, and old black and white movies. His two favorite activities are reading comics to his kids and typing into the wee hours of the morning. Fortunately, like the protagonist of his Void City novels, he needs very little sleep.

'''J.F. Lewis''' is the author of the Void City series published by Pocket Books. His first book, ''Staked'', resulted in his excommunication, but he assures us he doesn't bite nor does his head spin around… though he wouldn't put it past his characters to do such things. Jeremy thinks it's pretty darn cool that his works have been translated into Italian and French. An avid reader, J also enjoys sushi, popcorn, lukewarm sodas, and old black and white movies. His two favorite activities are reading comics to his kids and typing into the wee hours of the morning. Fortunately, like the protagonist of his Void City novels, he needs very little sleep.

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J is a member of the [http://www.sfwa.org/ Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America], where he volunteers as editor for their [http://www.sfwa.org/pressbook/ Pressbook] pages. He is also a [http://www.codexwriters.com/ Codexian] and a member of the [http://reluctantadults.blogspot.com/ League of Reluctant Adults]. You can [http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1538132763&ref=nf Like J on Facebook] or follow him on [http://twitter.com/jf_lewis Twitter]. You can also find free fiction set in the Void City universe on [http://www.authoratlarge.com his website].

J is a member of the [http://www.sfwa.org/ Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America], where he volunteers as editor for their [http://www.sfwa.org/pressbook/ Pressbook] pages. He is also a [http://www.codexwriters.com/ Codexian] and a member of the [http://reluctantadults.blogspot.com/ League of Reluctant Adults]. You can [http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1538132763&ref=nf Like J on Facebook] or follow him on [http://twitter.com/jf_lewis Twitter]. You can also find free fiction set in the Void City universe on [http://www.authoratlarge.com his website].

Cats. Science Fiction. Renaissance Festivals. Irish drinking songs. Nowhere else but from the bizarre imagination of '''Marc Gunn''' would those four elements be so neatly integrated. Nicknamed “The Celtfather,” Gunn is a champion of the Celtic MP3. He say he's given away over 10,000,000 MP3s since he began his Celtic music career in 1999. He allows fans to download and share his most-popular songs straight from [http://www.marcgunn.com his website] for ''free''.

Cats. Science Fiction. Renaissance Festivals. Irish drinking songs. Nowhere else but from the bizarre imagination of '''Marc Gunn''' would those four elements be so neatly integrated. Nicknamed “The Celtfather,” Gunn is a champion of the Celtic MP3. He say he's given away over 10,000,000 MP3s since he began his Celtic music career in 1999. He allows fans to download and share his most-popular songs straight from [http://www.marcgunn.com his website] for ''free''.

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Gunn is an award-winning acoustic folk musician rooted in the American Celtic song tradition—Celtic music, the Traditional and the Twisted. His musical instrument of choice—the autoharp—continues to surprise musical veterans and fans a like for it’s unique sound and spirited energy.

Gunn is an award-winning acoustic folk musician rooted in the American Celtic song tradition—Celtic music, the Traditional and the Twisted. His musical instrument of choice—the autoharp—continues to surprise musical veterans and fans a like for it’s unique sound and spirited energy.

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His [http://celticmusic.org/buy-cds/marc-gunn-cds/ latest album] combines drinking songs and fantasy music. ''Don’t Go Drinking With Hobbits'' is a ''Lord of the Rings''-inspired album highlighting the hobbits’ love of eating, drinking and song.

His [http://celticmusic.org/buy-cds/marc-gunn-cds/ latest album] combines drinking songs and fantasy music. ''Don’t Go Drinking With Hobbits'' is a ''Lord of the Rings''-inspired album highlighting the hobbits’ love of eating, drinking and song.

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You can find out more about Marc at [http://www.marcgunn.com his website], friend him [http://facebook.com/marcgunnmusic on Facebook], give him feedback at [http://www.marcgunn.com/blog/ his blog], or check him out [http://www.youtube.com/bellobard on YouTube].

You can find out more about Marc at [http://www.marcgunn.com his website], friend him [http://facebook.com/marcgunnmusic on Facebook], give him feedback at [http://www.marcgunn.com/blog/ his blog], or check him out [http://www.youtube.com/bellobard on YouTube].

'''L.R. Barrett-Durham''' considers herself a Jane Of All Trades. Her first novel, ''Never Trust a Sorcerer'', is an epic fantasy self-published in September 2011. While working on the second book in her "Trust Series," ''Always Trust Your Honor'', she met E.G. Glover who quickly became her co-author on a paranormal romance series. Together they finished the first volume, ''Fear the Beast Within'', in just thirty-seven days; it came out just one day apart from ''Always Trust Your Honor''. The second book of the "Fear Series," ''Fear the Thirst Within'', was published in May 2012.

'''L.R. Barrett-Durham''' considers herself a Jane Of All Trades. Her first novel, ''Never Trust a Sorcerer'', is an epic fantasy self-published in September 2011. While working on the second book in her "Trust Series," ''Always Trust Your Honor'', she met E.G. Glover who quickly became her co-author on a paranormal romance series. Together they finished the first volume, ''Fear the Beast Within'', in just thirty-seven days; it came out just one day apart from ''Always Trust Your Honor''. The second book of the "Fear Series," ''Fear the Thirst Within'', was published in May 2012.

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L.R. is a native of North Alabama and not only an author, but a freelance artist in several media. She illustrated the cover of each of her four books; designs jewelry taken right from the pages of those books; and makes fantasy stained glass dragons, gargoyles, and custom pieces.

L.R. is a native of North Alabama and not only an author, but a freelance artist in several media. She illustrated the cover of each of her four books; designs jewelry taken right from the pages of those books; and makes fantasy stained glass dragons, gargoyles, and custom pieces.

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You can find out more about Ms Barrett-Durham at the [http://fearandtrust.freewebspace.com joint website she has with Mr. Glover] or Like them on [http://www.facebook.com/fearandtrust their Facebook page]

You can find out more about Ms Barrett-Durham at the [http://fearandtrust.freewebspace.com joint website she has with Mr. Glover] or Like them on [http://www.facebook.com/fearandtrust their Facebook page]

'''E.G. Glover''''s first novel, ''Fear the Beast Within'', was published in January 2012 so he considers himself quite new to "the novel-writing scene." E.G. says he flirted with shorter fiction in high school&mdash;writing poems and short stories&mdash;but it wasn't until recently that his dream of writing a novel became a reality. Four short months later, he and co-author L.R. Barrett-Durham had two novels in print, when book two, ''Fear the Thirst Within'', appeared.

'''E.G. Glover''''s first novel, ''Fear the Beast Within'', was published in January 2012 so he considers himself quite new to "the novel-writing scene." E.G. says he flirted with shorter fiction in high school&mdash;writing poems and short stories&mdash;but it wasn't until recently that his dream of writing a novel became a reality. Four short months later, he and co-author L.R. Barrett-Durham had two novels in print, when book two, ''Fear the Thirst Within'', appeared.

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An Alabama native, one of his hopes with the "Fear Series" is to prove that a romantic story can be told with a male's point of view entwined and still hold its romanticism.

An Alabama native, one of his hopes with the "Fear Series" is to prove that a romantic story can be told with a male's point of view entwined and still hold its romanticism.

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You can find out more about Mr. Glover at the [http://fearandtrust.freewebspace.com joint website he has with Ms Barrett-Durham] or Like them on [http://www.facebook.com/fearandtrust their Facebook page]

You can find out more about Mr. Glover at the [http://fearandtrust.freewebspace.com joint website he has with Ms Barrett-Durham] or Like them on [http://www.facebook.com/fearandtrust their Facebook page]

'''Cat Faber''' lives in eastern Tennessee. She writes and sings songs about science fiction and fantasy subjects, often playing the mandolin or octave mandolin as accompaniment. With a little technological aid she's even been known to play both on the same song. Cat wrote about twenty-five songs last year and finished an album, ''The King's Lute'', in July of 2012. Just about ''anything'' may find itself song-fodder if she happens to be passing by&mdash;she recently wrote a song about various forms of solar power which she started while hanging her clothes out to dry. As a result, she has enough material for a second album and intends to start recording soon. She also builds and paddles cedar strip canoes.

'''Cat Faber''' lives in eastern Tennessee. She writes and sings songs about science fiction and fantasy subjects, often playing the mandolin or octave mandolin as accompaniment. With a little technological aid she's even been known to play both on the same song. Cat wrote about twenty-five songs last year and finished an album, ''The King's Lute'', in July of 2012. Just about ''anything'' may find itself song-fodder if she happens to be passing by&mdash;she recently wrote a song about various forms of solar power which she started while hanging her clothes out to dry. As a result, she has enough material for a second album and intends to start recording soon. She also builds and paddles cedar strip canoes.

'''Eric Flint''''s writing career began with the science fiction novel ''Mother of Demons''. With David Drake, he has collaborated on the six-volume Belisarius series, as well as a novel entitled ''The Tyrant''. His alternate history novel ''1632'' was published in 2000, and has led to a long-running series with several novels and anthologies in print. In addition, he’s written a number of science fiction and fantasy novels. Flint has also been the editor for over 2 dozen reprints of classic science fiction novels and collections.

'''Eric Flint''''s writing career began with the science fiction novel ''Mother of Demons''. With David Drake, he has collaborated on the six-volume Belisarius series, as well as a novel entitled ''The Tyrant''. His alternate history novel ''1632'' was published in 2000, and has led to a long-running series with several novels and anthologies in print. In addition, he’s written a number of science fiction and fantasy novels. Flint has also been the editor for over 2 dozen reprints of classic science fiction novels and collections.

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Flint graduated from the University of California at Los Angeles in 1968, majoring in history (with honors), and later received a masters degree in African history from the same university. Despite his academic credentials, Flint has spent most of his adult life as an activist in the American trade union movement, working as a longshoreman, truck driver, auto worker, steel worker, oil worker, meatpacker, glassblower, and machinist. He has lived at various times in California, Michigan, West Virginia, Alabama, Ohio, and Illinois. He currently resides in northwest Indiana with his wife Lucille. You'll find more about him on [http://www.ericflint.net/ his website], including an extensive collection of [http://www.ericflint.net/index.php/category/snippets/ snippets] of work&mdash;much of it from upcoming novels.

Flint graduated from the University of California at Los Angeles in 1968, majoring in history (with honors), and later received a masters degree in African history from the same university. Despite his academic credentials, Flint has spent most of his adult life as an activist in the American trade union movement, working as a longshoreman, truck driver, auto worker, steel worker, oil worker, meatpacker, glassblower, and machinist. He has lived at various times in California, Michigan, West Virginia, Alabama, Ohio, and Illinois. He currently resides in northwest Indiana with his wife Lucille. You'll find more about him on [http://www.ericflint.net/ his website], including an extensive collection of [http://www.ericflint.net/index.php/category/snippets/ snippets] of work&mdash;much of it from upcoming novels.

{{-}}

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'''Gerald W. Driggers''' is an Aerospace Engineer who lays claim to being a space visionary and who enjoys touring North America by travel trailer with wife Carol and Wilson the cat. Gerald was heavily involved in space launch and colonization efforts in the 1960s and 1970s, before realizing that industry and government leadership did not share his vision for the future. Events, he says, validated his concerns, and he subsequently enjoyed careers in various engineering pursuits. Gerald now expresses his insights and visions for human evolution in space through science fiction. For details, search the web for “gerald w. driggers” or he invites you to visit his blogs at [http://Earth-Mars.com Earth-Mars.com] and [http://spaceagedropout.com spaceagedropout.com] (though the latter is still under construction).

'''Gerald W. Driggers''' is an Aerospace Engineer who lays claim to being a space visionary and who enjoys touring North America by travel trailer with wife Carol and Wilson the cat. Gerald was heavily involved in space launch and colonization efforts in the 1960s and 1970s, before realizing that industry and government leadership did not share his vision for the future. Events, he says, validated his concerns, and he subsequently enjoyed careers in various engineering pursuits. Gerald now expresses his insights and visions for human evolution in space through science fiction. For details, search the web for “gerald w. driggers” or he invites you to visit his blogs at [http://Earth-Mars.com Earth-Mars.com] and [http://spaceagedropout.com spaceagedropout.com] (though the latter is still under construction).

Contents

Guest of Honor

Jody Lynn Nye

Jody Lynn Nye was born in Chicago. Before breaking away to write full time, she worked as a file clerk, bookkeeper at a small publishing house, freelance journalist and photographer, accounting assistant, and costume maker. For four years, she was on the technical operations staff of a Chicago TV station, serving the last year as Technical Operations Manager. During her time at WFBN, she was part of the engineering team that built the station, acted as Technical Director during live sports broadcasts, and worked to produce in-house spots and public service announcements.

Since 1985 she has published 47 books and 120 short stories. Among the novels are her epic fantasy series, The Dreamland, beginning with Waking In Dreamland; five contemporary humorous fantasies, Mythology 101, Mythology Abroad, Higher Mythology, Advanced Mythology, and The Magic Touch, three medical science fiction novels, Taylor’s Ark, Medicine Show, and The Lady and the Tiger; and Strong Arm Tactics, the first in the humorous military science fiction series, The Wolfe Pack. Jody also wrote The Dragonlover’s Guide to Pern, a non-fiction-style guide to the world of best-selling author Anne McCaffrey’s popular world. She also collaborated with McCaffrey on four science fiction novels, The Death of Sleep, Crisis On Doona, Treaty At Doona, and The Ship Who Won (as well as a solo sequel to Ship entitled The Ship Errant). Jody co-authored the Visual Guide to Xanth with best-selling author Piers Anthony, and edited three anthologies, including a book of humorous stories about mothers in science fiction, fantasy, myth and legend, entitled Don’t Forget Your Spacesuit, Dear! Her fantasy duology, An Unexpected Apprentice and A Forthcoming Wizard invoke the Lord of the Rings in tone and style. She wrote eight books with the late Robert Lynn Asprin: License Invoked, a contemporary fantasy set in New Orleans, and seven set in Asprin’s Myth Adventures universe. After Asprin’s passing, she continued with both his Dragons and Myth-Adventures series, writing Dragons Deal, Dragons Run, and Myth-Quoted.

Her newest series from Baen, the Lord Thomas Kinago books, include View From the Imperium, Fortunes of the Imperium, and Rhythm of the Imperium.

Over the last twenty years, Jody has taught in numerous writing workshops and participated on hundreds of panels covering the subjects of writing and being published at conventions. She has also spoken in schools and libraries, consulted on an animated feature scripts, and runs the two-day writers’ workshop at Dragon Con in Atlanta. She and her husband, Bill Fawcett, are the book reviewers for Galaxy's Edge Magazine. You can find out more about her and her work at jodynye.net or follow her on Twitter at @JodyLynnNye.

Artist Guest of Honor

Howard Tayler

Howard Tayler is the writer and illustrator behind Schlock Mercenary, the Hugo-nominated science fiction comic strip. His artwork is featured in XDM X-Treme Dungeon Mastery, a role-playing supplement by Tracy and Curtis Hickman, as well as in the board game Schlock Mercenary: Capital Offensive by Kevin Nunn, published by Living World Games.

Howard has written SF horror for the Space Eldritch and Space Eldritch II: The Haunted Stars anthologies, and full-metal fantasy tie-in fiction for Privateer Press under their Skull Island X imprint. He also co-hosts the Hugo and Parsec award-winning “Writing Excuses” podcast, a weekly 'cast for genre-fiction writers. "Fifteen minutes long, because you're in a hurry, and we're not that smart."

A recovering autodidact, Howard nevertheless remains a firm believer in the power of focused practice, and in the relative irrelevance of talent. He praises artists' skills, rather than saying "you're so talented," because he knows that their years of study and refinement are what we see on the pages they create.

He lives in Orem, Utah with his wife Sandra, their children, and one ungrateful, archetypally imperious cat. You can find out more about his work at www.schlockmercenary.com.

Master of Ceremonies

Bill Fawcett

Bill Fawcett has taught, been a game designer, author, and college dean. His entire life has been spent in creative fields and managing other creative individuals. He's one of the founders of Mayfair Games, a board and role playing gaming company. As an author Bill has written or co-authored over a dozen books and dozens of articles and short stories. As a book packager, his company Bill Fawcett & Associates has worked with over 400 titles for virtually every major publisher including a number of best selling SF, mystery, and action novels. He founded, and later sold, what is now the largest hobby shop in Northern Illinois.

Bill's first commercial writing appeared as articles in the early Dragon magazines. At Mayfair Games he edited the "Role Aides" Role Playing Game modules and supplements in the 1980s. During this period he also designed almost a dozen board games such as Empire Builder and Sanctuary. In 1994 Bill joined with a team of programmers to form Catware, with him as producer and designer. Catware released Swords of Xeen as part of the game set, Star General, a strategic game that was one of the 20 best selling games the year of its release, Las Vegas Games, and is now working on an online RPG. Bill produced and designed the computer RPG game Shattered Light for Simon & Schuster.

His novel writing began with the juvenile series, Swordquest for Ace Penguin Putnam Publishing. The Fleet series he created with David Drake has become a classic of military SF. Bill has collaborated on mystery novels such as the authorized Mycroft Holmes novels and the Madame Vernet Investigates series. As an anthologist, Bill has edited or co-edited almost 50 anthologies. Bill is the editor of Hunters and Shooters and The Teams, two oral histories of the SEALs in Vietnam. His most recently published works include It Seemed Like a Good Idea, You Did What, How To Lose A Battle, How To Lose a War, and It Looked Good on Paper: Engineering Disasters Through History. He also wrote Oval Office Oddities, containing thousands of fun facts and strangeness about US Presidents. The recently published 100 Mistakes that Changed History and Trust Me, 100 Leadership Mistakes that Changed History are now available; and 101 Stumbles in the March of History will be released in 2016.

Science Guest

Stephanie Osborn

Stephanie Osborn, the Interstellar Woman of Mystery, is a veteran of more than 20 years in the civilian space program, with graduate and undergraduate degrees in four sciences: astronomy, physics, chemistry and mathematics. She is also "fluent" in several more, including geology and anatomy. She's authored, co-authored, or contributed to almost 30 books, including the celebrated science-fiction mystery, Burnout: The mystery of Space Shuttle STS-281. She is the co-author of the Cresperian Saga book series, and currently writes the critically acclaimed Displaced Detective series, described as "Sherlock Holmes meets The X-Files," and the exciting Sherlock Holmes: Gentleman Aegis series. In addition to her writing, the Interstellar Woman of Mystery now happily "pays it forward," teaching math and science through numerous media including radio, podcasting, and public speaking, as well as working with SIGMA, the science-fiction think tank.

Also Expected to Attend

^Go To Top of Page^
In addition to our Guests of Honor, Master of Ceremonies, and Science Guest we have a great lineup of other guests that keeps expanding. The list is updated as guests are confirmed.

Julie Cochrane

David Drake

David Drake

While David Drake was studying at Duke Law School, the Army changed his immediate career path to a choice between interrogator or grunt. Dave chose interrogator. He was assigned to the 11th Cav, the Blackhorse, and spent much of 1970 riding armored vehicles through jungles instead of slogging on foot.

During his service, Dave learned new skills, saw interesting sights, and met exotic people who hadn’t run fast enough to get away. He returned to Duke, completed his law degree, and became Chapel Hill's Assistant Town Attorney while trying to put his life back together through fiction that made sense of his Army experiences.

Dave describes war from where he saw it: the loader’s hatch of a tank in Cambodia. His military experience, combined with his formal education in history and Latin, has made him one of the foremost writers of realistic action SF and fantasy. His bestselling Hammer's Slammers series is credited with creating the genre of modern Military SF.

He would rather be a moderately successful lawyer with a less interesting background.

Dave lives with his family in rural North Carolina. You can learn more about him at david-drake.com.

Les Johnson

Les Johnson

Les Johnson is a physicist, a science and science fiction author, and a NASA technologist. His most recent book, On to the Asteroid, with co-author Travis Taylor, will be released by Baen in August 2016. Les’s previous books include Back to the Moon, Going Interstellar, and Rescue Mode (all for Baen) and Living Off the Land in Space, Solar Sails, Harvesting Space for a Greener Earth, and Sky Alert: When Satellites Fail (Springer Books). He is the Senior Technical Adviser for NASA’s Advanced Concepts Office at the George C. Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville AL, where he serves as the Principal Investigator for the Near Earth Asteroid Scout solar sail mission that will launch in 2018. Les has numerous peer-reviewed journal publications and was published in Analog. He is a member of the National Space Society, the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, The British Interplanetary Society, The World Future Society, and MENSA.

Travis S. Taylor

Toni Weisskopf

Toni Weisskopff

Toni Weisskopf succeeded Jim Baen as publisher of Baen Books in 2006. She has worked with such authors as David Weber, Mercedes Lackey, David Drake, Lois McMaster Bujold, Eric Flint, Wen Spencer, Larry Correia, Charles E. Gannon, and many others. With Josepha Sherman she compiled and annotated the definitive volume of subversive children’s folklore, Greasy Grimy Gopher Guts. Weisskopf is a founding member of NASFA and a graduate of Oberlin College with a degree in anthropology. She is the mother of a delightful daughter, and lives in a hundred-year-old house with three cats, two dogs, and a polearm in every room.